Influenza (Flu)

Influenza (flu) is an infection, caused by a virus, that makes you feel very sick, often with fever, headache, body aches, and coughing.

People often use the term "flu" to describe a cold or a stomach virus. But influenza isn't a stomach problem, and it usually feels much worse than a cold.

By

Healthwise Staff

Primary Medical Reviewer

E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine

Specialist Medical Reviewer

Christine Hahn, MD - Epidemiology

Last Revised

October 9, 2012

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

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